Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Elise's volleyball season has been finished for almost a month now. While I was glad for it to be over and the running to be finished. I am sitting here tonight being a little sad. Sad that she will never again have a sophomore year volleyball game. Her team finished undefeated and won the MAC for Christian Schools. It was a fun season and a well deserved Championship.

Even though Elise only plays volleyball, our lives seem to follow sports around the calendar. We have not missed a football game once this year..yes, we are the fans that have been known to travel to away games that are 4 hours away. I laugh at some of the questions I have been asked when we show up at an away game (that really was 4 hours away). You first have to understand that our school is very small, the people that attend WC know us, know Elise. It is the look on their faces trying to figure out why we are at games so far away. Someone asked me this week with a puzzled look..."Mrs. Denney I thought you only had Elise. Do you have a son that plays?" I of course laughed and replied that Kim Watts and I are like family, therefore, her son plays, and well that would be my nephew out there. It is Mark that draws us there but it is also the other guys that have passed through my door in either first and second grade. I loved them then. I loved them like they were my own sons...even if it was only for one year. But it is more rewarding for me to watch their true character played out on the field. The students at WC are good guys, they have thier heads on straight. No, we are not perfect and we all mess up but it is a community that loves each other through those mess ups.

It has been rewarding for me to watch these guys grow up but more rewarding for me to see them grow into the men God wants.

This Friday the Indian will have the home advantage as we enter into the State Playoffs. Westminster was #2 in our division. Wish us luck! GO INDIANS!

Saturday, August 21, 2010

Number 3, is embossed on the back of every players helmet for the season.

I guess sometimes you will never know what will forever be etched on your mind. Those etchings can be one of wonderful memories or one of those memories we would like to forget.

On August 14, 2010, Westminster met the Lewisville Lions on the football field for a simple scrimmage. A celebration of the opening of football season. Westminster and Lewisville had no commonality except for the fact that they were two teams who played football and ultimately wanted to win. What they experienced out on that field was only to be realized after the game and through the time still to come.

During the game one of the Lions, number 3, Brian Colvin, fell on the field. We learned after the game that he had passed away. I will have to stop right there, to let you know that this is something that burdens my heart even now. I wondered how it would effect our team and how in the world would his parent's survive this tragedy. What about his team members? So many questions, I couldn't answer. Still the biggest question of them all is God, why did You let this happen? That question is one I will not ever know the answer to on this side of Heaven.

A week has passed and the Indians took the field for their first home game. There was a different feeling about this game. There were tears glistening in every eye, lumps in every throat, and the number 3 held up by every hand. You see we had special guests. The Lewisville Lions and fans were invited to the game. The team departed from the bus with heart felt applause. Then they were part of us, a part of Westminster, a part of God's family, but most of all a part of God's plan.

The Westminster Catawba Indians and the Lewisville Lions praying at the rock before the game.

The Indians and the Lions taking the field as one team.

I may not ever understand the reasons behind this...I do know that God was very present last night. The way that our team reached out to the Lions and the Lions reached back to us was something that will be etched on my memory. God's plan in action.

Once again, I am reminded of how precious teaching is at a Christian School.

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Well, after a wonderful short summer....school is back in session. I will have to say that this year, more than any year, I have had a really hard time with the thought of the first day of school. I am not really sure why. I read a lot this summer, went to the beach, and slept late..really late. It was not an exciting summer by any one's standards, it was just good to be carefree for awhile.

So as summer came to an end, my head was not into starting the year again. I have actually been teaching 19 years, that means 19 first days of school. Everything I did to prepare for this year had to be done twice or maybe even three times. I just could not get settled on anything. Even this morning I had an unsettled feeling.

Then God appeared...My 16 tender hearts started to slowly fill my room. The chatter of 7 year olds excited about the first day of school and seeing each other, cluttered my room. Book bags, supplies, and Kleenex had to be taken care of. The first day, even through the confusion, seemed to be routine for me. As we worked, organized, and got to know each other, my heart swelled... it swelled with God's great love and grace. I can't describe that filling in words. And once again I was reminded that I am where God wants me to be. Even as I write my eyes puddle a little because God is such a huge God. Why would he care about a confirmation to me. He is so big why would he care about a little old me. That answer I will not ever fully understand.

So on the night of the first day of school...I look forward to seeing my little ones tomorrow. I pray that God will be seen in my actions. I pray that His compassion and grace will transform my students lives. I pray that He will work in each of them so that they can develop into the people that He wants. Lord, protect us. Keep us safe. Transform our hearts. Let us draw in and grow us in your wisdom. Thank you touching my heart as only YOU can. Lord, be with us. We love you!

Saturday, August 14, 2010

Wow! There are a ton of things I need to do before students return on Tuesday. All which I cannot remember right now. I officially started back to school on Tuesday August 10. The four days that I reported to work were I think busy. It seems like I did a lot of spinning in circles. An example of this is...I was going to put up my bulletin boards, I need my stapler, I opened my desk drawer and then had to clean it out. After I finally dug my stapler out and started my bulletin board, I ran out of staples and had to unpack our supplies for the year. It was one little job after another. This year of all years I just feel scattered. I am not really sure why or if I can collect myself enough to be ready. But, ready or not...the students will return.

Although there are LOTS of changes in the school this year that are good and I am excited about there is a heaviness that my heart holds. We have found out that a dear fellow teacher's husband has leukemia and will begin treatment Monday. So pray for their family.

Another dear fellow teacher's mother has cancer and has taken a turn for the worse. Several of my fellow teachers have had to take their student's to college for the first time.

Then last night, at our football scrimmage, a player from the opponents teams fell on the field and we learned that he passed away from cardiac arrest a short time later. He was a senior, 18 years old. As a parent I cannot imagine the suffering that is to come for this family. It is a shame.

Then I pray, I pray hard, that the Lord will protect us, protect our school, protect our students from Satan's attack. My heart literally cries out for HIS comfort to descend like a blanket. I need to be covered with His grace.

So...I apologize for always writing about doom and gloom. But as I have said before, writing to me is a way to heal. Maybe you can understand about the heaviness of my heart. I know there is hope in Jesus Christ, I know what kind of treasure He is to us, to me. But sometimes I just don't understand all the hurt of our world. I know all of this is His plan but....I guess that is faith in action. So pray with me. Pray Hard! And of course, hold onto your fork the best is yet to come!

Sunday, July 25, 2010

As this sweltering heat consumes the air around us my thoughts drift back to a time when I was young. I have said more than once that I grew up on the water. No we didn't have a house on the lake but as far back as I can remember we had boats. In fact, my dad just sold his last one about a month ago.

The boat pictured is not our actual boat just an image that I downloaded that stirred up memories. Gosh, this post would be days long if I told every story about that boat that I have locked away. The funny thing is, I remember giving my parents an attitude about going to the lake because as a grew into a teenager we would go for every weekend and when dad took vacation, we didn't go to the beach, or to the mountains to ski we went to the lake. Usually dad would take 2 weeks off in the summer and away we would go either to Barren River or Cumberland Lake. Did I mention that this boat....didn't have a shower. We bathed in the lake with Ivory Soap!

As an adult I am really glad my parents loaded me and my attitude into the car. Some of my best memories with my parents and brothers were on that Gibson houseboat.

Troy was just a little guy. He wore his life jacket ALL the time. I wonder now if he slept in that thing. Troy had a water mishap as a real youngster and was afraid of water. I am not sure to this day if he loves the water. But boy he loved to fish. Every time he stuck his pole in the water he would pull up a bluegill or crappy. That would be pronounced "croppy" in Kentucky but "crappy"in South Carolina. It will always be "croppy" to me. The lake was where I learned to ski, lost my first ring, and memorized the routes to many hospitals. (Those stories are for another day.)

Back to the sweltering heat, I remember many summer days when we were in the lake, I mean swimming, from as soon as the breakfast dishes were clean to dark. We would only get out to eat and then we would be back in again. Thinking about these times, there was nothing really big it was just spending time together as a family. As I remember, it is bitter sweet. To have that time back....knowing what I know now. I would do things SO differently.

Go out and make memories with your family....I wonder what Elise will remember from her childhood. It won't have anything to do with a lake and well that just makes me SAD!

Tonight, Joel,Elise and I went on an ice cream run. On our way home, we saw the moon. It was so close that it appeared to be just 'around the bend.' It reminded me of a time when Elise was young. Years ago we saw a similar sight. Elise was to young to understand just how far away the moon was from us. From the backseat, I can still hear this, "Daddy, take me to the moon." Being too young to understand, Joel told Elise that he couldn't take her. That just broke her heart. You know Daddy does everything for his precious daughter. I think she cried for hours. She didn't realize that the task she had asked was impossible. Although, if Joel could have taken her that night to the moon he would have.

But this got me to thinking about my Heavenly Daddy, the one that will do anything for His precious daughter. My Heavenly Daddy is wonderful. The difference between earthly Daddies and our Heavenly Daddy is simply no matter how much our Daddies here on earth want do for their children some things are just impossible, with our Heavenly Daddy nothing is impossible. When we ask, He Will!

At times when things are not going smoothly, it is easy to forget that or should I say it is easy to remember things of this world. In my mind I have to fight thoughts like: "Why isn't ___ working out my way, _____ isn't fair, or don't I deserve ____?" Then God shows me His marvelous grace. He can take me to the moon! All I have to do is ask and let go! He has the best plans for me. And oh yeah, His plans may not be mine but if I give Him time his plans will be revealed. I just have to be patient ( I really don't like that word), "pull up my boot straps," and remember what I have been called to do. So, Daddy take me to the moon!

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

This "Holy Ghost It" did not come to me in the usual way! God usually uses church signs to speak to me. This "Holy Ghost It" is from Robbie Foreman's status on facebook. I am not sure if Robbie just posted it or if he had heard or read it somewhere else. Knowing Robbie, I think it probably came from him. For those that don't know, Robbie was our Youth Director at church. He is still dearly loved and thought about often in our family. We miss him but know God is doing great things through him at his new position.

"The damage done to you does not discount the price paid for you!"

Thank you Jesus for paying the price you did for me. I am yet still so undeserving! Amen

Today is July 21...School is just around the corner. It starts three weeks from yesterday! YIKES!!! Am I ready, you ask and my answer would be Umm....NO! I had a million "projects" I wanted to finished and haven't. I had school work I wanted to finish and didn't. I have school work I must finished and haven't even started. I know that work must be finished and it will be but probably not until the night before the deadline.

I ask myself where does the summer time go. Granted, when I usually don't start my day until 9:00 the day goes pretty quick. I have read more books this summer than ever before, thanks to the wonderful invention of the KINDLE. I have weeded and cleared most of the daisies. I still have two areas that have been invaded that I haven't hit yet and probably won't until fall.

I have had a pretty peaceful summer. I have met friends for lunch, have ran Elise to and from, and read.

Now, I have to think of bulletin boards, lamination, and lesson plans for the upcoming year. I will be teaching 19 tender hearts this year. It has been a while since I have had this large of a class. I often wonder what God has in store for us, at times I become a little anxious, ok a lot anxious then I remember that I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me. I always begin my open house speech by telling parents that I will not be the perfect teacher for your child, but the one thing I can tell them is that I love their children like no other teacher will. And that is only true because God loves them through me. So as I work in my classroom and those of my fellow teachers I walk the desks praying for each student,even though I am not sure of who will be in my class.

So wish me luck and a whole lot of blessings because the best is yet to come. Hold on to your fork!

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

As I started writing this blog, I can't think of a title. There are so many things going on in my mind that I am sure this will sound more like the ramblings of a lunatic.

When I wrote in one of my last blogs for God to bring on the Reign....I didn't mean for Him to present us with yet more challenges. During last nights thunderstorm, it seems that the pool pump was hit by lightning. Boy, can a pool get dirty in just one day. I guess our clear blue pool....finally, will turn to a mucky green. Joel came home tonight and looked at it, he didn't know what to do either. My job tomorrow is to call the Lancaster Pool and Spa to see if they can come look at it......Uuumm, I wonder what this will bring.

My dryer, since last nights storm, was acting out of sorts too. I figured that we would have to do work on it as well as the pool....it seems to be ok for now. I may have panic a little too early on that one.

Oh, the lightning in last nights storm, claimed yet another cable box. Comporium is going to start wondering about us.

Once again I was out trimming the hedges...I will say, I have been hacking away at his project a little at a time. But it is becoming like a Goliath to me. Joel even said, "Where did you trim today." It is not even noticeable to him. The bad thing about it is I am doing it all by hand so it is a huge project. Do I have any friends out there that are willing to help?

My good buddies birthday is tomorrow. I praise the Lord everyday for putting her in my life. She is a true sister.

Elise went to the eye doctor today, praise Him that she doesn't need contacts or glasses! Maybe she has Daddy D's eyes. I sure hope so. I know one thing she doesn't have mine.

The thought for today, even though these things happen or are happening....Elise and I began our day by sighting a doe and her fawn. As we watched them both run across a field, Psalms 18:33 comes to mind, "He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; He enables me to stand on heights." One day I will stand on the greatest heights with my Lord and Savior. That is what I will rest in.

Putting in a Plug- for a wonderful book for children...Hind's Feet to High Places. I am not sure who the author is but every time I read it to my class, God moves me and teaches me things.

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Today is a terrible, horrible, no good day, very bad day. I didn't sleep well last night, I dreamed about vampires all night, and I woke up with a stiff neck, Joel has been working at night, working during the day on his school work.

Writing has always been a healing or a way to clear my mind. Well, today is a day that I am just .....ummm, blue. I miss my family in Kentucky and my heart wants to desperately visit. Joel, I, and Elise have looked at our schedules and either due to work, school, or volleyball it looks like we will not be making a trip home. When I told my mom this, let's just say she didn't have a good response. Then this morning, my dad called. Always at the end of our conversations he always says, "Love ya, bye."

Those three little words just about opened the flood gates. Don't get me wrong we are busy. We have people around us that love us but in the middle of it all, there is nothing like family. I am sure if my closest pals knew I felt the way I do today, they would do anything to change it. Down deep in my heart I know all the things that I should be telling myself. I know I need to pull up my boot straps and get on with it.

Then my spirit is lifted by picking up a program for a friend's daughter's wedding that Elise and I attended this weekend. Be Thou My Vision is printed on the back of it. All of a sudden my spirit realizes there is a reason for all of this heartache. I have to keep my eye on the prize.

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

This by far is the best invention out there. This is a Kindle,my Kindle actually. It is just like a book but it is electronic. The books are download on to this device and WAA LAAA!

I have been asking for one for about 3 years but I just couldn't stomach the price. Around Valentine's Day, Joel said he was going to order one for me. Valentine's came and went. Joel never did buy it but I broke down and bought it myself. He was Joel's idea, wasn't it? But I think it is the best thing out there.

This is the first item that I have ever bought that I was so excited about getting I had emails delivered to my account to know exactly where it was during the buying/shipping process. I was like a little kid waiting for Christmas to come. It has been well worth the investment.

Sunday, June 27, 2010

As a little girl I remember being at the boat during a thunderstorm.We used to take wonderful naps with the pitter patter of the rain on the water. I have always love thunderstorms. So much so, I will wait and watch the sky for them.

When Elise was small, unlike most children, she loved thunderstorms as well. As soon as we heard the rumble of thunder we would head to the porch to watch for its arrival. She would be concentrating on whatever she was doing, and look up at me and say, "It's pundering, Mama!" Then we would head out waiting and watching. I have taught her to count the time between the thunder and lightning, to see if the storm is coming or going. I have taught her to watch the sky for thunder heads and to smell the air. Believe me I never put her in danger. When things really got going we would head inside.

The strange thing about thunderstorms is the beauty and the power behind the lightning. I love lightning...it reminds me so much of God. How beautiful He is but oh how powerful. It is amazing to me that we can be crawling up on His lap for the comfort or peace that we need but yet His power is always there.

In my life time, my house has been struck by lightning 3 times. The first time was in Ky shortly before our move here. It claimed one TV and VCR. The second time was also in Ky the week before we moved here. Lightning claimed our TV, we waited until we moved here to get a new one. And the third, was here in this house, just today. So far it looks like it has claimed one TV, two VCRs. Our power to the outlets in the back part of the house are not working. So who knows what will come of this power!

But still I love thunderstorms. I know the damage they can cause and treat them with respect but they teach us so much. They bring relief from the smothering heat, they refresh life, and they remind me of God's great power......Bring on the Reign, Lord!

For those of you in my area or Rock Hill, I have a friend whose family has opened a "farmers market." It is on 21 right outside Ft. Lawn. Heading to Rock Hill it will be on the Right. It sits back off the road a bit. You pass Jordan's farm. Look for a tan tarp.

Last week I picked up a watermelon and 3 tomatoes. Total cost $2.75. This week I bought a cantaloupe, onion, 3 bell peppers cost was $2.25. They pretty much have it all. Okra was the new item this week. However, being the KY girl that I am....I passed on the Okra. The stuff so far was yummy.

Friday, June 18, 2010

Elise made it home from the DR. Her plane was delayed several times in Atlanta. The DR team pulled into the school parking lot at almost 2AM. Our first stop was McDonald's...believe it or not we waited for about 15 minutes for a chicken snack wrap. I think we finally got home at 3:16AM.

Elise did say she was glad to be home! YEAH! She fell on her bed with arms opened wide and told her bed, "I will never leave you again!" Notice she told her bed that but not Joel and me.Today her complaint was, "Why does this country have to be so cold?" It has been close to 100 degrees and very humid here. That was puzzling to me as I had sweat rolling down my back.

Now, she is looking for odd jobs to do so that she can save for next years trip. I had already told her she can't go next year because of raising support. So she is wanting to save for next year. Although, I have offered to pay her to come with me next week, she asked, "How early do I have to get up?" When I told her that we had to be to school by 8:00, she said she would pass. She must not want the money too bad!!!

Next, week I am teaching two modules in Camp Invention. It is a national camp that is put on for raising first graders through sixth graders. It should be very fun but there has been A LOT of preparations going into it over the last two days. I will be working this weekend as well. Pray that everything runs smoothly!!!!! I am teaching Saving Sludge City and I Can Invent. Did I mention it is a science camp!!!

Monday, June 14, 2010

Today I started tutoring a student that I had this year. She is in summer care at school. As I walked through the gym looking for her I peeked into open doors. I wasn't sure where she would be. Hearing a voice and noticing another second grader in a classroom, I peered into the classroom. Without even calling her name she jumped up and came to me. What happened after that, words have a hard time coming to me. Hugs, hugs like she had not seen me for years not just a matter of days. Those hugs warmed my heart. Actually, I was overcome by her joyful greeting.

You see she was expecting me, she knew I was coming. Probably even knew about the time of day I was coming. Her response to me was overwhelming. I will tell you that during this brief moment in time, God spoke once again to me. One, do I respond to God like that? Do I wait on Him expectantly? When He arrives do I greet Him with overwhelming unconditional love? Two, God confirmed to me again, that being a Christian School teacher has rewards far more precious than money.

He has given me a passion for His children and the joy of teaching. Even when I find myself short on the patience, I still LOVE what I do!

You know as a walk through this daily life I continue to see God. Where so often I fail, God says, "He succeeds."

Over the last few days I have been working in my landscape or jungle by the pool. Years ago, I mean years ago, Joel and I planted Black Eyed Susans. Daisies are my all time favorite flowers. They seem to have happy little faces. Over the last several years they have literally taken over our small area. While I do love these flowers they have simply overtaken the area. This year I decided that I wanted them gone...like GONE!

I pulled a section, then Joel got the idea that we should just spray them with weed out. So I did. If you know me I am a very impatient person. So after I sprayed them I decided they were not dying quick enough for me. Working by myself, I started pulling them out again. As I pulled and pulled and cut those that I still couldn't pull out, my mind drifted to God. I began to wonder if God sees the sin in me as I see the daisies. I know he uses the Holy Spirit to identify sin in my life but I wonder if my heart is covered by the same fullness of sin as the area around my pool is covered by the daisies. God continues to pull/cut or whatever to remove the sins in my life.

The area where I am trying to pull out the flowers is also by a Yucca plant. If you have ever been poked by the ends of a Yucca, they hurt. Too bad when we sin, the Holy Spirit can't prick our hearts like the end of a Yucca. Wait, I think He does.

Saturday, June 12, 2010

This was another picture posted on the blog that Mrs. Spatola is writing. I think the team has been very busy. It has been extremely hot and humid. One of the projects was putting up fans.

Elise will be home on Wednesday about midnight. Please continue to pray for wellness and safe travel home. Tomorrow is a day of rest. Monday is a workday and Tuesday is a fun day. They will be going to the market and to the beach.

Thursday, June 10, 2010

This is the first time I have laid eyes on Elise since early Saturday morning. It is great to know she is alive and well. Please continue your prayers for her and the team.

I was jolted awake early this morning, I laid there wondering why I woke up in the middle of the night. My heart was beating out of my chest. I had a feeling that Elise needed prayer. So that is what I did for the next little while. I prayed. I prayed for peace, wellness, and strength to sustain her. I am not sure she really needed it but some times a mom knows. It has been 6 days. One week from yesterday she will be returning. And to answer your question, I have not gotten the work that I wanted finished, complete yet. I am still trying.

Thursday, June 3, 2010

As the school year draws to a close, I always take time to reflect on the year. I have been teaching for 18 years but I always learn something.

Top 10 of 2010!10. You have to be in the grip of HIS grace to give grace.9. Patience - I can never have enough.8. I have to be open in order for God to work through me7. write down everything so I don't forget anything6. The more I give the more I get.5. Even when I "fail" God succeeds4. Sometimes there is nothing I can do- I need to give the control to HIM!3. Each and everyone of my students God created in His image2. Curriculum is not everything1. 5:15 is awfully early!

Each year presents and ends itself with new demands. But each year can make me become a better servant if and only if I allow it. May God be with the students that passed in and out my door this year. I pray that their hearts will be molded, that their brains will be filled, and that their bodies equipped with the good things of God.So this is good-bye to the Dynamite Dozen.

Monday, May 31, 2010

4 days until Elise leaves for the Dominican Republic. Which has been "dubbed" the DR by our family. I am praying already for her safety and wellness during the trip. We have been to the doctor for antibiotics, been shopping for clothes and supplies, now all we need is for Saturday morning at 3 AM to get here. I appreciate all the prayers we can get. Please pray for safe travel, the team to stay well, and for God's will and work to be done.

Elise is putting hands and feet to God's calling. Joel and I are proud of her for being willing to 1. listen to His calling and 2. For her to be willing to step out of her comfort zone to do as He asks.

It will be a long 12 days. If anyone wants to go to lunch or go see a movie, let me know. I am not sure what I am going to do with my time. I know I am going to sleep a little more, read a book or two, and maybe paint some rooms in the house. Don't quote me on the last one though.

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

A friend of mine had to put their dog down yesterday.....and that has got me thinking.

I wonder how a pet dog comes into our families and changes the inner being of who we are. I have had a lot of pet dogs in my lifetime and most of them have touched me in ways that I really can't put into words.

Jock- this was really Todd's dog. I was a very about 6 when Jock was around. He was a white poodle who really didn't like me. I was little and didn't know better but I would pick him up and pretend to throw him down the basement steps. Needless to say, every time I picked him up he would try to bite me. He died unexpectedly during a family camping trip. I remember that day like it was yesterday.

Todd, Dad, family friends and I had just loaded up in our run about to do some skiing. My mom came yelling to my dad to come back ashore. "A dog got a hold of Jock." she said. I remember saying to my dad, "Oh, Jock will get a hold of the other dog." My dad said something like no he could be hurt. That was the first time that I realized my dad could not fix everything. Todd and I were told to put our heads down on the picnic table while my dad and family friends got Jock and took him to the car. ( I did peek). Dad tried to take Jock to a vet but he died on the way. Somewhere he is buried beside a barn.

Sebastian or Bass- He was an apricot poodle who was purchased the night we returned from our family camping trip. Now Bass was my dog. I loved that little puppy. He slept on a pillow on my floor until I was about 19. He would bite any and everybody who came around. It got to be a joke. My dad would tell everyone that he only bit you if he liked you. Well, yes I was bitten quite a lot. Bass taught me to be wary of people, watch yourself, no matter who you are around.

Casey- She was my project dog. I had moved out of my parent's house and into an apartment with friends. I wanted a dog but knew I couldn't afford the price of a pure bred. We started looking at dog pounds. Joel found her in a pen somewhere around Oldham County. I remember going out one evening to see her. We got there after the pound was closed but she was in a pen and I could still see her. The next day she was mine. She was a mess. She was a mix between a poodle and some type of Spaniel. Her hair was matted, she had flees and worms. She looked terrible. After a vet trip the next day, I walked out with a vet bill of over $150.00 plus grooming fees of $50.00. So much for the cheaper way, I could have gotten a pure bred. I can still remember the day I took her home to see my parents. She had literally be shaved completely down except for the tip of her tail. My mom and Todd rolled to the floor laughing. She taught me that it didn't matter what you looked like on the outside, it was the inside that was the most important. We had to put her down 12 years later.

Oscar entered the picture after Joel and I were married for about a year. We had moved into our first house. He joined our family and Casey in May of 1991 as a graduation from college present to me. We had been shopping one day, walked into a pet shop and walked out with Oscar. Oscar was a Lhasa Alpso. Joel named him Oscar because of Oscar the Grouch on Sesame Street. He was not a grouch, I loved that dog, he by far my most dear pet. He loved like nothing else. He would bark Aroo, roo, roo when we entered the house. He taught me to make sure I greeted everyone I met with a smile and a warm hello. We had to put him down 13 years later.

Two weeks later we had Benson. Now, this story doesn't have an ending yet. But Benson is a piece of work. He is stubborn, a yapper, but the biggest lap dog I have ever had. Benson is a black and tan Miniature Pincher. I didn't know much about Min Pins until I got Ben. I am not really sure I know much at this point. Benson has made me really look at God as He tries to mold us and make us into the people He wants. Just like I try to train Ben into the dog I want him to become. I haven't succeeded yet but I am thankful God isn't finished with me yet.

So to make a long story even longer...pets especially dogs, have taught me some valuable life lessons. I hate putting our pets to sleep but my feelings on that are that they have brought us so much selfless joy while they were ours, the least we can do for them is to give them the last selfless love from their masters. Believe me when I say that we don't take putting dogs to sleep lightly. It is the very last thing we want to do. What would I do without DOGS! They truly are our family members while they are on this earth.

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

I can't believe that my first group of first graders are graduating. Out of the 45 graduates this year I think there are 6 that were my students. Boy the stories I should have written down. I wish I could only remember the stories now. I do remember that room and those students like it was yesterday.

I loved those those students like I have loved every class. I can see their faces and when I hear their names the faces that I see are those of first graders not of grown men and women. I am very proud of those student...really the senior class as a whole. They have grown a lot over the years both physically but more importantly spiritual.

As they start this new venture in their lives, I pray for them. I know they are men and women that seek after God.

Monday, May 24, 2010

This morning, like so many mornings, my Daddy D was on my mind. Sunday mornings always seem to be the hardest. I miss Daddy D especially on Sundays. I guess that is because I pretty much grew up under his wing, in my spiritual journey anyway.

Today as the choir sang "Oh, How Marvelous," I could hear his voice and a small smile crept to the edge of my mouth. It was as if I could hear his big, deep, beautiful, voice singing the chorus all the way from Heaven. I was shocked and surprised at the smile. Music has always moved the very inner of my soul but usually with tears.

I sat there surprised and almost rejoicing for the memories I have with Daddy D. I was overjoyed with the fact that he was with Jesus on that morning. In that instant I knew Daddy D was watching us from Heaven and the Holy Spirit was telling my me all is well within my soul. Then the sadness returned and the longing to hear that big, deep, beautiful voice hurt my heart...still bringing tears. Oh, How Marvelous it is that he is in Heaven, but, oh how I wish he was here for me.

Daddy D, you are gone but never forgotten!

Oh, How Marvelous

Oh, How Wonderful

Is My Savior's love for me.

Anybody else hear Daddy D's voice?

If you would like to hear him sing visit memoriesoftyredenney.blogspot.com. The video is good but in person was so much better.

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

I am not sure where to even begin ... there is so much going on. First, those of you at WC, hold on, God is working with us! My friend and I have said many times in the last year that Westminster was getting ready to BUST wide open. God moved through the student body this fall like nothing else could. Many spiritual changes have happened because of the students and the Holy Spirit. All I can say is we are there on the edge about ready to explode! Rock Hill you better hold on to your fork!

With a silent tear that falls and as my heart swells with love and pride...My brother, yep Troy, my little brother, the one that used to look up to me, now I look up to him. The one that screamed at the top of his lungs because he had a box staple sticking out of the soft spot on his knee. The brother that used to call when he need to drop a class and didn't know how to tell mom and dad or didn't know what to do, is now a DOCTOR! Saturday May 8th, Troy will graduate from medical school and I won't be there! (Which really stinks and hurts like a fork in my heart) But just as this chapter of his life is finished I know God has something even better for him in store. Troy, hold on to your fork, the best is yet to come!

For the last three months, Elise has practiced night after night for the school performance of "Annie Get Your Gun." On Friday April 30th tech week began, she has had practice for at least 4 hours each and every night this week. "Annie Get Your Gun" starts tomorrow night with a dinner theater and performances on Friday and Saturday night at 7. Buy your tickets now!

Elise, hold on to your fork, the best is yet to come!

So all I can say now is, does anyone have a fork? I need to make sure I hold on to it!

Monday, April 12, 2010

Isn't God good. He provides what we need in the nick of time. Not one second too soon or one second too late.

I will have to say that I am/was at the end of my rope. It just seems I can't get out of this vicious cycle that keeps 'dumping' on me. Every time I turn around something smacks me in the face. And frankly I am getting really tired and well just.... sick of it. Then I find this....

" I will say it again... enduring pain will lead to tremendous progress. So...for those who MAY be about to give up because the pain is SO intense....don't give up on the God who has never given up on you...allow the pain to make you better, not bitter...and hold on because if He can trust you with pain He can trust you with the provision He is about to bring your way." Perry Noble

God has used Perry Noble more than once in my life to hit it home. After I read this the tears turn to a small smile and maybe... just maybe HOPE will be on the horizon. So as long as God has my back....BRING IT ON! God has not yet given up on me.

Check out Newspring.com. Perry's sermons can be downloaded or podcast. Thank you God, for using people like Perry Noble, to speak YOUR truth, like only YOU can.

Monday, March 15, 2010

Just this weekend I said to Joel, I really wish we lived close enough to some of our family to see regularly. Troy and his family are moving across the nation in just a short while...it has me thinking.

While I don't choose to be far from my family, God has chosen this path for me. Some reasons I know beyond a doubt why we moved. Those are for a blog of another time and place. The last month has been REALLY HARD to be away but the truth in the matter is that, even when I pray for God to move us back home, my heart would break in a thousand pieces if we left South Carolina. Why you ask? I will tell you!

He has placed in my life two very special families. My KY family and my SC family. God has given me two of the best friends I can imagine here in SC. Sometimes I think...no I know they know me better in some areas then my KY family. Simply because we see and talk to each other on a daily basis. I am not knocking my KY family in the least. I love them and miss them dearly but God has blessed me with friends that are my family here. These two family rejoice with us, hurt with us, and I think really count us theirs. Just like family they tell me when I mess up too. Truth be known that is what I love most about them. They love me enough to to be truthful. We look out for each other, pray with each other, and are just there for each other.

During one of the visitations for Daddy D, Jennifer G., my precious sister-law, said through tears to my parents, that.."I was theirs" Do you know how good that felt. I love my Denney family but to hear it spoken still brings tears to my eyes. Sorry that was a side note.

The thing about these two friends is that God has given me a SC family to lessen the hurt of being far from my KY family. I am theirs and they are mine. They would drop anything and everything to be with me and the same goes for me.

So I guess what I am trying to say is that, God fills our lives with people that touch us and leave fingerprints all over us. I love my SC family and wonder at times what I would be like without them. I wouldn't be the person I am ...I can tell you that.

God was right when he said we are all His family. So does it really matter that people in our family are our friends and our friends are our family. In God's eyes (and mine), it doesn't really matter...as long as you love each other.... I mean really love each other.

Words of my Daddy D come to my mind...he once wrote an article titled "Tell Your Children you Love Them." I have taken that to heart. I often tell my friends that I love them. Simply because I want them to know. So tell your family/friends that you love them because you do.

Sunday, March 14, 2010

Much was said at Dad's funeral about his BMW's, but nothing was said about the BMC's. BMC was an acronym for British Motor Company, which started as merger of the Austin and Morris automobile companies and ended up as British Leyland and included such famous (or infamous) marques as Jaguar, Triumph, MG, Rover, Austin, Morris, Mini,and Austin-Healy.

I think that all six of us kids, except maybe Jennifer, had an English car at some time or another. Jim had a baby blue Morris Minor convertible. Jeff had Triumphs, the Herald, the Spitfire, and the TR6's. I had the orange Austin America and Jody and Jana had another Spitfire. Let's just say it was a character-building experience, one that I wouldn't trade for anything now.

Anyway long before the Bosch fuel-injected, Motronic ignition, automatic climate controlled, leather interior w/sunroof BMW's, there were Morris Minors with SU carbruetors, little or no heat,and worst of all, Lucas electrical systems. The Morris Minor was called by some the first modern car when it went into production shortly after WWII. In typical English fashion it had changed very little when prodcution ended in 1970. The most powerful Morris Minor engine produced around 65 hp. Dad's last BMW's would have had over 300 hp. The Morris did have a folding rear seat. It was semi-automatic and if Jody and I weren't careful it would sometime fold us up too.

For some reason Dad loved those Morris Minors. Whenever I saw one I'd make sure to tell him about it. I saw one for sale in Lexington while we were there last summer after Dad's knee surgery. I told him about it and of course it started a round of car stories that kept Tracey and Elise entertained. Looking back I guess it was our last face-to-face conversation before the cancer.

I used to kid Dad that the BMW's were his reward from God for all the sacrifices that he made while driving the Morris Minors and his other "little foreign cars". It may well have been. The cars also give us a metaphor for life with God. Just as Dad had to go through his BMC's before he got to the BMW's we all have to go through the trials and tribulations of life here on earth before we can reach our rewards in heaven.

Thursday, March 11, 2010

This is a copy of an article my Daddy D wrote. I am not sure of the date or year but I know one thing, I was a child of his.

"It is fairly late Father's Day night and I am re-reading the cards and remembering the hugs,kisses,hands shaken, pats, and "happy Father's Day I got from my children and grandchildren today. The house is quiet and it is a special time for me. And in the quietness, the words spoken by the character, Dr. Oahlander, "I've lived long enough to see my children grow up to be not only people I love but, people for whom I am very, very proud." takes on an even more special meaning than they did the last time I thought of them. Having six children you can very very, very proud of is a blessing indeed.

That's why I'm writing them this letter:

Dear Child of Mine,On this Father's Day I want you to know I'm thankful to our heavenly Father first,for the privilege of having you as my own. Being your daddy means everything to me. I remember, as though it were yesterday, the first time I saw you. I also remember how surprised I was to find out that those people who kept saying Oh, what a pretty baby! were looking at you, too. But, by the time they let me hold you-- in those days daddies could look but they were not allowed to touch until you were practically half grown--you were beginning to look pretty good. Then, after holding you that first time well...I was hooked for life.

When you were a baby, whether it was by rocking, walking, singing, dribbling or spinning around in the chair, I always enjoyed getting you to sleep. This is nothing quite so mind-settling and peaceful as having your own baby go to sleep in your arms. You gave me a lot of mind-settling, peaceful moments. And, as you might imagine, there were literally thousands of other moments in your childhood that made me feel just as warm inside. I'm grateful for every one of them.

But now you are grown--or at least, nearly grown, too big to rock, walk,sing, dribble or spin around to sleep and too big to think of and treat as a child, So, in that sense our relationship has had to change. But the bond is still there: and loving you and being proud of you and being your daddy means everything to me.

Thanks for today: it was special. Thanks for every day: you help your mother to make them special too. Love always,Daddy

P.S. 17X36 shirts,40 inch slacks, and black socks"

What a legacy Daddy D left for us to fill. It was a privelege to be counted as one of his.

First things first, I want to thank everyone for their prayers for my family. While we are still trying to deal and adjust to my father-in-laws death, we know he is a much better place. It is just hard to deal with on this side of heaven. It still seems unreal and raw. However, God promises to give us the peace that passes all understanding. I guess I never knew what that really meant until this. For those of you that have not experienced a loss of a loved one-- God does provide peace that passes all understanding. I know that He provides strength when we need it most and there is a peace that DOES pass all of my understanding. If you don't have a personal relationship with the Lord, let me know, I will be glad to sit and tell you what a friend we have in Jesus.

Updates:

Annie Get Your Gun--Elise has started rehearsals for the spring musical again this year. I said my theme song should be On the Road Again. .. however, the next line of that song says I just can't wait to get on the road again. That is not me. I can wait to get on the road again. She is in the ensemble and is an Indian girl. She has two lines!!!!

Dominican Republic- Prayers are needed. Money deadline is quickly approaching. We still owe $380 by March 24th. I guess my faith is being tested because I am not feeling like it is going to come in. We are only a week away from the deadline. Bring it on Lord!

We have re-enrolled back for WCCS again next year. Elise would be heart broken if we left. Just pray for enrollment and that I will have a place next year. God is always good.

Monday, February 22, 2010

Tracey asked me to put the story of Tyre and Willis talking about answering God’s call into words. Here is the story, as I remember it. Keep in mind that I have been radiated, and this is an old story! — Tyre was working for Delta as a mechanic: he was married and had three children. Tyre felt the call of God to become a preacher, which meant he would have to leave Delta, go to college, and then to cemetery. Willis said, “Bud, college will take you four years. You’ll be 36 when you finish.” Tyre replied, “I’ll be 36 in four years anyway.” They then discussed the change and what would be involved. Willis mentioned that Tyre would have to give up his good job with benefits and security, move to another state, and live on a preacher’s salary. Tyre then said, “It doesn’t make any sense to hold on to something I cannot keep, and to give up something I cannot lose.”

There is a school of thought in motivational circles which holds that on any given day we will be faced with a decision; we will make the decision without fanfare; and our lives will be changed. With that thought in mind, let’s think for a moment about the possible outcomes of Tyre and Betty not answering God’s call.

o We would still have Jennifer, Jim, Jeff, Joel, and Jody. But, we wouldn’t have Jana: a great loss.

o The 5 J’s would have found spouses in the Metro-Atlanta area, and probably lived happily ever after. But, they would not have the spouses, children, and grand children they have now: a great loss.

o If Tyre had stayed with Delta, the LORD would have sent someone else to minister in Anderson County. But, the folks at Gash would not have had Tyre come drink coffee, read the paper, and tell stories, and the “Lunch Bunch” would not have had a Pope: a great loss.

o If Tyre and Betty had stayed in Atlanta, the LORD would have sent someone else to Africa, to serve in the Kentucky Baptist Convention, and to serve in the Southern Baptist Convention. But, that someone would not have been Tyre: a great loss.

We will not know this side of heaven (to borrow a preacher phrase) the eternal impact of the Life of Jesus lived through Tyre and Betty on the people of Kentucky, Alabama, Georgia, Texas, Africa …

Tyre, Betty, and the rest of us did not lose when they chose to give up a job and to take hold of a ministry: we gained what we cannot lose.

Love,

Art

Art is Joel's cousin. I love the phrase, "It doesn't make any sense to hold on to something I cannot keep, and give up something I cannot lose."

Sunday, February 7, 2010

Each week your writing would inspire people so I am writing this as a gift to you.

Do you remember the first time we met? I do, Joel had just had a wreck in his red BMW 2002. We had taken the station wrecker and towed it home to Lawrenceburg to be fixed. It was in the living room of the old house. When we met, it wasn't like it was for the first time...it was like I had been part of your family. From that day on it seemed like I was part of your family. You never treated me like anything other than that.

When I think about all of the great events in my life you are there, sometimes in the for front, sometimes just in the shadows: Graduation, baptism, marriage, child birth, surgeries, sickness. Some of those mine and some of those my family.

Shortly after Joel and I were married I asked you one day what I should call you. Your reply was just a simple "Daddy D." I can remember you saying that you and Betty didn't just have 6 kids but you had 12, I am blessed to be one of those lucky dozen. What a great Dad you have been to me! You see that is what I considered myself to you, I am your daughter. I cannot tell you how many of your words (either preached or just in day to day conversation) resonate in my mind. When you married Joel and I, you said we would go through storms, I will have to say I was a little upset, I thought Joel and I going through storms was a wild idea. Now almost twenty years later, I think if you said that to me today, I would like to sit and talk with you for a while. The stories of your life have encourage me in some of the darkest days. One of my favorites is the story of the leaning barn with just a stick or two holding it up.

It has been almost 22 years, I have grown a lot under you wings and guidance. You have served as father-in-law, pastor, grandfather, and most of all a Dad. The greatest gift that I learned from you was how to love people, regardless of where they come from, what they look like, or where they have been. You minister and encourage everyone you come in contact with, always putting them first.

I guess what I am trying to say in all this "bumbling and fumbling" is that having you in my life has be one of the greatest joys. I have seen Jesus and feel closer to Him because of you. So Daddy D rest, rest in the assurance that you have a friend in Jesus, rest in the fact that your legacy will live out through your children, your grandchildren, and your great grandchildren. I love you Daddy D!

Tracey

Daddy D met Jesus on February 14th, 2010 at 8:15am. A Sunday no less. Thank you Daddy D for loving me. Thank you Jesus for loving my Daddy D.

Thursday, January 7, 2010

I am not sure how many of my readers remember the HeeHaw Show. It was a tv show that we watched on Saturday nights when I was young. Now, I will have to tell you that I do not believe in luck. I know that God is in control of everything. However, that song has become my theme song over the last few months.

It all started with having to replace the car battery. The very next day it was our hot water heater, the day after that a leak in the brand new hot water heater hose. About two weeks later yet another leak in one of the hoses of the hot water heater. Then this morning, we awoke to no heat. Don't worry it is working now, we are not really sure why it stopped working through the night. Joel fixed it with a simple off and on throw of the breaker...and it began to work again.

In college, the girl that lived across the hall from me, used to say she had a "poop cloud" that would every now and then follow her around and take a dump on her. Needless to say, I think that cloud has found us the last month.

You know that when I go through trails God always has a way of showing himself to me. I passed a church sign that reads: When you have nothing else left but Jesus you realize that He is all you really need. I guess He is trying to teach me this.

I know He is All I need. But transportation, hot water, and heat are nice commodities. So please pray that our heat will continue to work. Especially since the last 22 days have been below normal temperatures and South Carolina has seen some of the coldest weather in years. And I was beginning to buy into Global Warming. Maybe all those "poop clouds" are bringing this cold weather. I sure hope that this front passes soon. Meanwhile, I will bundle up, build a fire and sleep on the floor if I need to...because ALL I NEED IS JESUS!!!!

About Me

I am a busy wife, mother, and teacher. My one desire is to be found faithful in the sight of God. As I live my life, this blog is an outlet for my thoughts and feelings. I see God in little everyday antics of second graders. I hope you will join me on my journey.